By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – The Mati City Health Office confirmed on Thursday, June 26, the city’s first monkeypox (mpox) case, prompting swift containment actions and a renewed public advisory on preventive health measures.
City Health Officer Dr. Ben Hur G. Catbagan Jr. said in a statement that the patient initially sought medical guidance through the city’s Telemedicine platform and later tested positive for mpox.
The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine confirmed the diagnosis through laboratory tests, with help from the City Health Office and the Department of Health-Davao Center for Health Development.
Catbagan said the patient reportedly experienced mild symptoms and remained stable throughout the illness. He added that the patient was placed under home isolation with strict medical supervision and has since completed the mandated isolation period as of June 20.
He added that members of the City Health Office promptly conducted contact tracing and close contact monitoring in line with national health protocols.
Catbagan assured the public that the city had activated its Incident Management System to strengthen monitoring efforts, working closely with barangay health units and following disaster response health protocols.
According to the World Health Organization, mpox is a viral disease transmitted primarily through close physical contact with individuals showing active skin lesions.
Common symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a painful rash. While most cases are self-limiting, severe infections can result in complications and long-term skin scarring.
“There is no ongoing outbreak of mpox in Mati City. Our surveillance teams closely monitor the situation, and we encourage residents to remain alert but not alarmed,” Catbagan said.
Health authorities urged residents to wash their hands with soap and water, avoid direct contact with individuals exhibiting rashes or flu-like symptoms, and seek immediate medical consultation if symptoms appear.
For medical inquiries or to report potential cases, Catbagan said the citizens may contact their office at (087) 3884-428 or (087) 3884-429 or email maticityhealthoffice@gmail.com.
Health authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Matinians and will provide timely updates as the situation develops
